Photosensitive member

ABSTRACT

The present invention relates to a photosensitive member containing a specific styryl compound for a charge transporting material, which is improved in photographic properties such as photosensitivity and repeating properties. The styryl compound represented by the following formula [X];    &lt;IMAGE&gt;  [X]  in which R11, R12, R16 and R17 represent independently an alkyl group, an aralkyl group or an aryl group, each of which may have a substituent; R13, R15 and R18 represent independently a hydrogen atom, an alkyl group, an alkoxy group or a halogen atom; R14 and R19 represent independently an alkyl group or an alkoxy group; l or n is an integer of 1, 2 or 3; m is an integer of 0, 1 or 2, is particularly excellent in the improvement of the sensitivity.

This application is a continuation-in-part of application Ser. No. 456,211, filed Dec. 20, 1989 now U.S. Pat. No. 4,971,874, issued Nov. 20, 1990 which is a continuation of Ser. No. 07/185,870 filed Apr. 25, 1988, now abandoned.

BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION

The present invention relates to a photosensitive member for electrophotography, and more particularly to an electrophotographic photosensitive member having a photosensitive layer which comprises a styryl compound as a main component.

Widely known as photosensitive members for electrophotography are those of function-divided types comprising a charge generating layer and a charge transporting layer which are formed on or over an electrically conductive substrate, and those of dispersion types comprising a photoconductive layer formed on a substrate by dispersing photoconductive particles in resin.

With the function-divided type, separated layers work dividedly to serve the basic functions of the photosensitive member, i.e generation of charge carriers and transport of the charges, to provide a photosensitive layer chargeable to a high surface potential and exhibiting great charge retentivity, high photosensitivity and stabilized repetition characteristics. Many compounds are known as charge generating materials and as charge transporting materials for use in the photosensitive members of the function-divided type. For example, various organic photoconductors of low molecular weight have been proposed for use in charge transporting layers. More specifically, U.S. Pat. No. 3,189,447 proposes use of 2,5-bis (p-diethylaminophenyl)-1,3,4-oxadiazole, but this compound has only poor compatibility with binders and is liable to separate out as crystals. Further U.S. Pat. No. 3,820,989 discloses use of diarylalkane derivatives having high compatibility with binders. However, the photosensitive member containing the derivatives undergoes variations in sensitivity when repeatedly used, and is still required to be improved in initial sensitivity and residual potential characteristics, as well as in sensitivity variations and durability for repeated use.

SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION

The main objects of the present invention are to improve the foregoing drawbacks of the prior arts and to provide an electrophotographic phtosensitive member having high photosensitivity and stable electrophotographic characteristics even at repeated use.

Stated more specially, the present invention provides an electrophotographic photosensitive member comprising a styryl compound represented by the following formula [I]; ##STR2## wherein Ar₁ and Ar₄ are independently hydrogen, or an alkyl group, an aralkyl group, an aryl group or an aromatic heterocyclic group, each of which may have a substituent; Ar₂ and Ar₃ are independently an alkyl group, an aralkyl group, an aryl group, an aromatic polycyclic group or an aromatic heterocyclic group, each of which may have a substituent; Ar₅ and Ar₆ are independently hydrogen, or an alkyl group, a phenyl group or an aromatic heterocyclic group, each of which may have a substituent, but Ar₅ and Ar₆ are independently an alkyl group, a phenyl group or an aromatic heterocyclic group when said Ar₁ and Ar₄ are both hydrogen; A is an alkylene group, an aralkylene group, an arylene group or a bivalent heterocyclic group, each of which may have a substituent.

The particularly preferable styryl compound is the one represented by the general formula [X]: ##STR3## in which R₁₁, R₁₂, R₁₆ and R₁₇ represent independently an alkyl group, an aralkyl group or an aryl group, each of which may have a substituent; R₁₃, R₁₅ and R₁₈ represent independently a hydrogen atom, an alkyl group, an alkoxy group or a halogen atom; R₁₄ and R₁₉ represent independently an alkyl group or an alkoxy group; 1 or n is an integer of 1, 2 or 3; m is an integer of 0, 1 or 2.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWING

FIG. 1 is a diagram showing the structure of a dispersion-type photosensitive member embodying the invention comprising a photosensitive layer formed on an electrically conductive substrate;

FIG. 2 is a diagram showing the structure of a photosensitive member of the function-divided type comprising a charge generating layer and a charge transporting layer which are formed on an electrically conductive substrate;

FIG. 3 is a diagram showing the structure of another phtosensitive member of the function-divided type comprising a charge generating layer and a charge transporting layer which are formed on an electrically conductive substrate;

FIG. 4 is a diagram showing the structure of another dispersion-type photosensitive member comprising a photosensitive layer and a surface protective layer formed on an electrically conductive substrate;

FIG. 5 is a diagram showing the structure of another dispersion-type photosensitive member comprising a photosensitive layer and an intermediate layer formed on an electrically conductive substrate;

DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION

The present invention relates to an electrophotographic photosensitive member comprising a styryl compound represented by the following formula [I]; ##STR4## wherein Ar₁ and Ar₄ are independently hydrogen, or an alkyl group, an aralkyl group, an aryl group or an aromatic heterocyclic group, each of which may have a substituent; Ar₂ and Ar₃ are independently an alkyl group, an aralkyl group, an aryl group, an aromatic polycyclic group or an aromatic heterocyclic group, each of which may have a substituent; Ar₅ and Ar₆ are independently hydrogen, or an alkyl group, a phenyl group or an aromatic heterocyclic group, each of which may have a substituent, but Ar₅ and Ar₆ are independently an alkyl group, a phenyl group or an aromatic heterocyclic group when said ar₁ and Ar₄ are both hydrogen; A is an alkylene group, an aralkylene group, an arylene group or a bivalent heterocyclic group, each of which may have a substituent.

A styryl compound is incorporated in a charge transporting layer of function divided photosensitive member to make only use of charge transporting ability of the stylyl compound.

The use of the present compound inhibits the light fatigue of the photosensitive member effectively and renders the member repeatedly usable with a diminished surface potential reduction, reduced rise of residual potential and lesser sensitivity variation, enabling the member to exhibit stable electrophotographic characteristics and high sesitivity to afford sharp copy images. The present compound also effects coatability.

Preferred styryl compounds represented by the formula [I] are those represented by the following formula [II], [III] and [IV]; ##STR5## wherein wherein Ar₇, Ar₈, Ar₉ and Ar₁₀ are independently an alkyl group, an aralkyl group, an aryl group, an aromatic polycyclic group or an aromatic heterocyclic group, each of which may have a substituent; A₁ is an alkylene group, an aralkylene group, an arylene group or a bivalent heterocyclic group, each of which may have a substituent. ##STR6## wherein Ar₁₁ and Ar₁₂ are independently an aryl group, an aromatic polycyclic or an aromatic heterocyclic group, each of which may have a substituent; R₁ is an alkyl group, an aryl group or an aralkyl group, each of which may have a substituent; A₂ is an alkylene group or a bivalent heterocyclic group, each of which may have a substituent. ##STR7## wherein wherein R₂ and R₄ are independently hydrogen, or an alkyl group, an aralkyl group or an aryl group, each of which may have a substituent; R₃ and R₅ are independently an aryl group, an aromatic polycyclic group or an aromatic heterocyclic group, each of which may have a substituent; R₆ and R₇ are independently an alkyl group, an aryl group or an aromatic heterocyclic group, each of which may have a substituent; A₃ is an alkylene group, an aralkylene group, an arylene group or a bivalent heterocyclic group, each of which may have a substituent.

In the styryl compound represented by the general formula [I], the most preferable one is represented by the general formula [X] below from the viewpoints of sensitivity, compatibility thereof with resin and the like; ##STR8## in which R₁₁, R₁₂, R₁₆ and R₁₇ represent independently a C1-C4 alkyl group, an aralkyl gorup, such as benzyl, phenethyl or the like or an aryl group, such as aryl or the like; R₁₃, R₁₅ and R₁₈ represent independently a hydrogen atom, a C1-C2 alkyl group, a C1-C2 alkoxy group or a halogen atom, such as fluorine, chlorine, bromine or the like; R₁₄ and R₁₉ represent independently a C1-C2 alkyl group or a C1-C2 alkoxy group.

In particular, the styryl compound in which both R₁₄ and R₁₉ are an alkyl group is preferable in the present invention.

Examples of more preferred styryl compounds of the present invention represented by the formula [II] are those having the following structual formulas. These examples are in no way limitative. ##STR9##

Examples of more preferred styryl compounds of the present invention represented by the formula [III] are those having the following structual formulas. These examples are in no way limitative. ##STR10##

Examples of more preferred styryl compounds of the present invention represented by the formula [IV] are those having the following structual formulas. These examples are in no way limitative. ##STR11##

Examples of more preferred styryl compounds of the present invention represented by the formula [X] are those having the following structual formulas. These examples are in no way limitative. ##STR12##

The styryl compound represented by the formula [I]is prepared, for example, by condensing a phosphorus compound represented by the formula [V]: ##STR13## wherein Ar₁ and Ar₂ are as defined in the formula [I], and R₈ and R₉ are each alkyl, cycloalkyl, aralkyl or aryl which forms a phosphonium salt, with an aldehyde compound represented by the formula [VI] ##STR14## wherein A, Ar₃, Ar₄, Ar₅ and Ar₆ are defined in the formula [I].

The styryl compound represented by the formula [I] is also prepared by condensing a phosphorus compound represented by the formula [VII]: ##STR15## wherein A, Ar₅ and Ar₆ are defined in the formula [I]; R₈ and R₉ are as defined in the formula [V], with a ketone compound represented by the formula [VIII] and [IX] ##STR16## wherein Ar₁, Ar₂,Ar₃ and Ar₄ are defined in the formula [I]. Preferably, each of R₈ and R₉ in the formula [V] representing the phosphorus compound is cyclohexyl, benzyl, phenyl, or lower alkyl.

Examples of reaction solvents useful for the foregoing process are hydrocarbons, alcohols and ethers, such as methanol, ethanol, isopropanol, butanol, 2-methoxyethanol, 1,2-dimethoxyethane, bis(2-methoxyethyl)ether, dioxane, tetrahydrofuran, toluene, xylene, dimethylsulfoxide, N,N-dimethylformamide, N-methylpyrrolidone, 1,3-dimethyl-2-imidazolizinone, etc. Among these solvents, polar solvents such as N,N-dimethylformamide and dimethyl sulfoxide are especially preferable.

Examples of useful condensing agents are sodium hydroxide, potassium hydoroxide, sodium amide, sodium hydride, and alcoholates such as sodium methylate, potassium-t-butoxide, etc.

The reaction temperature can be selected from a wide range of from about 0° C. to about 100° C. and is preferably 10° C. to 80° C.

The preferred styryl compound represented by the general formula [X] is prepared, for example, by condensing a phosphorus compound represented by the formula [XI]; ##STR17## in which R₂₀ and R₂₁ are independently alkyl, cycloalkyl, aralkyl or aryl which forms a phosphonium salt; R₁₅ and m are the same as described in the formula [X], with an aldehyde compound represented by the formula [XII] and [XIII]; ##STR18## in which R₁₁, R₁₂, R₁₃, R₁₄, R₁₆, R₁₇, R₁₈ and R₁₉ are the same as described in the formula [X];

In the formula [XI], a cyclohexyl group, a benzyl group, a phenyl group, or a lower alkyl group is particularly preferable for R₂₀ and R₂₁.

In other method for preparing the styryl compound represented by the general formula [X], the dihydroxy compound represented by the general formula [XV]; ##STR19## which is prepared by condensing a grignard reagent represented by the general formula [XIV] ##STR20## in which R₁₅ is the same as described in the formula [X]; and X is a halogen atom, with the ketone compounds represented by the general formulas [XII] and [XIII], may be dehydrated.

The reaction conditions, such as reaction solvents, condensing agents, reaction temperature may be the same as above mentioned.

Alternatively, the styryl compound to be used in the invention can be prepared from a corresponding quaternary phosphonium salt, such as triphenylphosphonium salt, in place of the phosphorus compound of the formula [V] or [XI], via phosphorylene obtained by the witting process and by the condensation of this compound with an aldehyde compound of the formula [VI], or [XII] and [XIII]. The styryl compounds exemplified above may be used singly or in admixture.

FIG. 1 to 5 schematically show examples of electrophotographic photosensitive members prepared with use of the styryl compound of the invention.

FIG. 1 shows a photosensitive member comprising a photosensitive layer 4 formed on a substrate 1 and prepared from a photoconductive material 3 and a charge transporting material 2 as admixed with a binder. The styryl compound of the invention is used as the charge transporting material.

FIG. 2 shows a photosensitive member of the function-divided type comprising a charge generating layer 6 and a charge transporting layer 5 which are combined to serve as a photosensitive layer. The charge transporting layer 5 is formed over the surface of the charge generating layer 6. The styryl compound of the invention is incorporated in the charge transporting layer 5.

FIG. 3 shows another photosensiteve member of the function-divided type which, like the one shown in FIG. 2, comprises a charge generating layer 6 and a charge transporting layer 5. In converse relation to the member shown in FIG. 2, the charge generating layer 6 is formed over the surface of the charge transporting layer 5.

The member shown in FIG. 4 comprises the one shown in FIG. 1 and a surface protective layer 7 formed over the surface of the photosensitive layer 4. The phtosensitive layer 4 may be separated into a charge generating layer 6 and a charge transporting layer 5 to provide a photosensitive member of the function-divided type.

FIG. 5 shows a photosensitive member having the same constitution as the on shown in FIG. 1 except that an intermediate layer 8 is interposed between the substrate 1 and the photosensitive layer 4. The intermediate layer 8 serves to give enhanced adhesion, afford improved coatability, protect the substrate and assure injection of charges from the substrate into the photoconductive layer with improved effectiveness. Polyimide resin, polyester resin, polyvinyl butyral resin, casein, etc. are useful for forming the intermediate layer. The photosensitive layer of the member may also be modified to the function divided type.

A photosensitive member of the present invention for use in electrophotography can be prepared by dissolving or dispersing the styryl compound of the formula [I] and a binder in a suitable solvent to obtain a coating composition, applying the composition to an electrically conductive substrate and drying the coating. When required, a photoconductive material and an electron-attracting compound, or a sensitizing dye and other pigments can be admixed with the coating composition. The dried coating, i.e. photosensitive layer, is usually 5 to 30 μm, preferably 6 to 20 μm, in thickness.

More specifically, the phtosensitive member of the function-divided type having the same structure as the member of FIG. 2 discribed, i.e. having a charge generating layer formed on an electrically conductive substrate and a charge transporting layer on the layer, can be prepared by coating the substrate with a charge generating material by vacuum deposition or by coating the substrate with a composition obtained by dispersing the material in a suitable solvent which may contain a binder resin dissolved therein when so required and drying the coating, to form charge generating layer, and further coating this layer with a solution of the styryl compound serving as a charge transporting material and binder resin in a suitable solvent, to form a charge transporting layer.

Phthalocyanines such as metal free phthalocyanine,titanyl phthalocyanine, aluminium chlorophthalocyanine may be put to use for vacuum deposition. Bisazo pigments may be put to use for dispersion type.

The charge generating layer thus formed is 4 μm or less, preferably 2 μm or less, in thickness, while the charge transporting layer is 3 to 30 μm, preferably 5 to 20 μm, in thickness. It is suitable that the charge transporting layer contains the styryl compound in an amount of 0.02 to 2 parts by weight, more suitably 0.03 to 1.3 parts by weight, per part by weight of the binder resin. The styryl compound may be used in combination with some other charge transporting material. When this material is a high-molecular-weight charge transporting material which itself is serviceable as a binder, the other binder can be dispensed with. The photosensitive member, like the one shown in FIG. 3, may be so constructed that the charge transporting layer is provided on the electrically conductive substrate, with the charge generating layer formed on the transporting layer.

The photosensitive member of the dispersion type having the same structure as the member of FIG. 1 described, i.e. having a photoconductive layer on an electrically conductive substrate, is prepared by dispersing a finely divided photoconductive material in a solution of the styryl compound and a binder resin, coating the conductive substrate with the dispersion and drying the coating to form a photoconductive layer. The photoconductive layer thus formed is 3 to 30 μm, preferably 5 to 20 μm, in thickness. If the photoconductive material is used in too small an amount, lower sensitivity will result, whereas presence of an excess of the material leads to impaired chargeability or gives reduced strength to the photoconductive layer. It is desirable that the photoconductive layer contains the phtoconductive material in an amount of 0.01 to 2 parts by weight, more desirably 0.05 to 1 part by weight, per part by weight of the binder resin. The amount of styryl compound is preferably 0.01 to 2 parts by weight, more preferably 0.02 to 1.2 parts by weight, per part by weight of the binder resin. The styryl compound may be used conjointly with a high-molecular weight photoconductive material, such as polyvinylcarbazole, which is serviceable as a binder in itself, or with some other charge transporting material such as hydrazone.

Examples of charge generating materials useful for the present photosensitive member of the function-divided type and examples of photoconductive materials useful for the dispersion-type member are organic substances such as bisazo pigments, triarylmethane dyes, thiazine dyes, oxazine dyes, xanthene dyes, cyanine coloring agents, styryl coloring agents, pyrylium dyes, azo pigments, quinacridone pigments, indigo pigments, perylene pigments, polycyclic quinone pigments, bisbenzimidazole pigments, indanthrone pigments, squalylium pigments and phthalocyanine pigments; and inorganic substances such as selenium, selenium-tellurium, selenium arsenic, cadmium sulfide and amorphous silicon. Any other material is also usable insofar as it generates charge carriers very efficiently upon absorption of light.

The binder to be used is any of known thermoplastic resins or thermosetting resins having electrically insulating properties, photocrosslinking resins and photoconductive resins. Although not limitative, examples of suitable binders are thermoplastic binders such as saturated polyester resin, polyamide resin, acrylic resin, ethylene-vinyl acetate copolymer, ion-crosslinked olefin copolymer (ionomer), styrene-butadiene block copolymer, polyallylate, polycarbonate, vinyl chloride-vinyl acetate copolymer, cellulose ester, polyimide and styrol resin; thermosetting binders such as epoxy resin, urethane resin, silicone resin, phenolic resin, melamine resin, xylene resin, alkyd resin and thermosetting acrylic resin; photocrosslinking resins; photoconductive resins such as poly-N-vinylcarbazole, polyvinylpyrene and polyvinylanthracene; etc. These binders are usable singly or in admixure. The electrically insulating resin is preferably at least 1×10¹² ohm-cm in volume resistivity. More preferable among the foregoing examples are polyester resin, polycarbonate and acrylic resin.

In preparing electrophotographic photosensitive members according to the present invention, the binder may be used conjointly with plasticizers such as paraffin halide, polybiphenyl chloride, dimethylnaphthalene, dibutyl phthalate and o-terphenyl; electron-attracting sensitizers such as chloranil, tetracyanoethylene, 2,4,7-trinitro-9-fluorenone, 5,6-dicyanobenzoquinone, tetracyanoquinodimethane, tetrachlorophthalic anhydride and 3,5-dinitrobenzoic acid; and sensitizers such as Methyl Violet, Rhodamine B, cyanine dye, pyrylium salt and thiapyrylium salt.

A photosensitive member thus prepared for use in electrophotography may have an adhesion or intermediate layer, or a surface protective layer when so required as already stated with reference to FIG. 4 or 5.

Suitable examples contained in the intermediate layer are polymers itself such as polyimide, polyamide, nitrocellulose, polyvinyl butyral, polyvinyl alcohol; dispersed layer with materials of low electrical resistance such as tin oxide, indium oxide and so on; vapor deposited layer such as aluminium oxide, zinc oxide, silicon dioxide and so on. Preferable thickness of the intermediate layer is 1 μm or less.

Suitable materials for a surface protective layer are acrylic resin, polyallylate resin, polycarbonate resin, urethane resin etc.; dispersed layer with materials of low electrical resistance such as tin oxide and indium oxide etc.; an organic plasma-polymerization layer; may be used. The organic plasma-polymerization layer may contain oxgen atom, nitrogen atom, halogen atoms, atoms of Group III and Group V in the periodic table, if necessary.

Preferable thickness of the surface protective layer is 5 μm or less.

As described above, the styryl compound of the present invention is easy to be prepared, can be incorporated into photosensitive members of the function-divided type or dispersion type and is usable in combination with various charge generating materials and binder resins, or conjointly with other charge transporting materials in some cases. Accordingly, the electrophotographic photosensitive member having the present styryl compound incorporated therein is very easy to be produced, finds wide use, has outstanding repetition characteristics with light fatigue effectively prevented by the styryl compound, exhibits improved sensitivity and is diminished in surface potential variation.

PREPARATION EXAMPLE (STYRYL COMPOUND [4])

Phosphonate of 3.76 g represented by the formula; ##STR21## and 2.96 g of a ketone compound having the formula; were dissolved in 30 ml of dimethylformamide. The suspension solution containing 5 g of potassium-t-butoxide in 70 ml of dimethylformamide was dropped into the above solution at the temperature of 5° C. or less. And then, the mixed solution was stirred at the room temperature for 8 hours and allowed to stand overnight. The resulting mixed solution was put into 900 ml of ice-water to be neutralized by dilute hydrochloric acid. After about 30 minutes, separated crystals were filtered.

The filtered products were washed with water and purified by recrystallization from toluene, affording 6.0 g of yellow needle crystals (yield, 84%). The result of elementary analysis was shown below;

    ______________________________________                                                C(%)        H(%)    N(%)                                                ______________________________________                                         Colcd:   83.57         8.64    7.80                                            Found:   83.47         8.65    7.74                                            ______________________________________                                    

PREPARATION EXAMPLE (STYRYL COMPOUND [34])

Phosphonate of 3.18 g represented by the formula; ##STR22## and 2.79 g of an aldehyde compound having the formula; ##STR23## were dissolved in 30 ml of dimethylformamide. The suspension solution containing 5 g of potassium-t-butoxide in 70 ml of dimethylformamide was dropped into the above solution at the temperature of 30°-40° C. And then, the mixed solution was stirred at the room temperature for 8 hours and allowed to stand overnight. The resulting mixed solution was put into 900 ml of ice-water to be neutralized by dilute hydrochloric acid. After about 30 minutes, separated crystals were filtered.

The filtered products were washed with water and purified by recrystallization from acetonitrile, affording 3.5 g of yellow needle crystals (yield, 82%). The result of elementary analysis was shown below;

    ______________________________________                                                C(%)        H(%)    N(%)                                                ______________________________________                                         Colcd:   89.51         7.23    3.26                                            Found:   89.43         7.25    3.28                                            ______________________________________                                    

PREPARATION EXAMPLE (STYRYL COMPOUND [84])

Phosphonate of 3.31 g represented by the formula; ##STR24## and 1.77 g of an aldehyde compound having the formula; were dissolved in 30 ml of dimethylformamide. The suspension solution containing 5 g of potassium-t-butoxido in 70 ml of dimethylformamide was dropped into the above solution at the temperature of 5° C. or less. And then, the mixed solution was stirred at the room temperature for 8 hours and allowed to stand overnight. The resulting mixed solution was put into 900 ml of ice-water to be neutralized by dilute hydrochloric acid. After about 30 minutes, separated crystals were filtered.

The filtered products were washed with water and purified by recrystallization from ethyl acetate, affording 4.2 g of yellow needle crystals (yield, 82%). the result of elementary analysisi was shown below;

    ______________________________________                                                C(%)        H(%)    N(%)                                                ______________________________________                                         Colcd:   86.38         8.17    5.45                                            Found:   86.26         8.19    5.39                                            ______________________________________                                    

PREPARATION EXAMPLE (STYRYL COMPOUND [110])

Phosphonate of 3.76 g represented by the formula; ##STR25## and 2.81 g of a ketone compound having the formula; ##STR26## were dissolved in 30 ml of dimethylformamide. The suspension solution containing 5 g of potassium-t-butoxide in 70 ml of dimethylformamide was dropped into the above solution at the temperature of 5° C. or less. And then, the mixed solution was stirred at the room temperature for 8 hours and allowed to stand overnight. The resulting mixed solution was put into 900 ml of ice-water to be neutralized by dilute hydrochloric acid. After about 30 minutes, separated crystals were filtered.

The filtered products were dissolved in toluene and purified by silica gel chromatography. Then, the obtained products further purified by recrystallization from ethyl acetate, affording 2.0 g of yellow needle crystals (yield 31.6%).

The result of elementary analysis was shown below;

    ______________________________________                                                 C(%)       H(%)    N(%)                                                ______________________________________                                         Colcd*:   87.34        8.23    4.43                                            Found:    87.28        8.20    4.39                                            ______________________________________                                          *:C.sub.46 H.sub.52 N.sub.2                                              

EXAMPLE 1

The bisazo compound of 0.45 parts by weight represented by the formula (A); ##STR27## 0.45 parts by weight of polyester resin (Vylon 200 made by Toyobo K.K.) and 50 parts by weight of cyclohexanone were taken in Sand grinder for dispersion. The dispersion solution of the bisazo compound was dispersed onto aluminotype-Mylar of 100 μm in thickness by the film applicator to form a charge generating layer so that the thickness of the dried layer would be 0.3 g/m². A solution of 70 parts by weight of the styryl compound [4] and 70 parts of polycabonate resin (K-1300; made by Teijin Kasei K.K.) dissolved in 400 parts by weight of 1,4-dioxane was dispersed onto the above formed charge generating layer to form a charge transporting layer so that the thickness of the dried layer would be 16 μm. Thus, a photosensitive member with the two layers was prepared.

The photosensitive member thus prepared was incorporated into a commercial electrophotographic copying machine (EP-470z, made by Minolta Camera K.K.) and tested with application of the voltage of -6 kv to the d.c. power supply to measure the initial surface potential Vo (v), the amount of exposure required for Vo to reduce to half the value of V_(o) (E_(1/2) (lux. sec)), and the potential decay rate DDR₁ (%) when the member was allowed to stand in the dark for 1 second after charged.

EXAMPLES 2-4

Photosensitive members were prepared with the same structure and in a manner similar to Example 1 except that the styryl compounds [6], [8], [12] for the charge transporting layer were used respectively instead of the styryl compound [4]. The photosensitive members thus obtained were tested in a manner similar to Example 1 to measure Vo, E_(1/2) and DDR₁.

EXAMPLE 5

The bisazo compound of 0.45 parts by weight represented by the formula (B); ##STR28## 0.45 parts by weight of polystyrene resin (molecular weight of 40000) and 50 parts by weight of cyclohexanone were taken in Sand grinder for dispersion. The dispersion solution of the bisazo compound was dispersed onto aluminotype-Mylar of 100 μm in thickness by a film applicator to form a charge generating layer so that the thickness of the dried layer would be 0.3 g/m². A solution of 70 parts by weight of the styryl compound [14] and 70 parts by weight of polyallylate resin (U-100; made by Yunichika K.K.) dissolved in 400 parts by weight of 1,4-dioxane was dispersed onto the above formed charge generating layer to form a charge transporting layer so that the thickness of the dried layer would be 16 μm. Thus, a photosensitive member with the two layers was prepared.

EXAMPLES 6-8

Photosensitive members were prepared with the same structure and in a manner similar to Example 5 except that the styryl compounds [17], [18], [21] for the charge transporting layer were used respectively instead of the styryl compound [14]. The photosensitive members thus obtained were tested in a manner similar to Example 1 to measure Vo, E_(1/2) and DDR₁.

EXAMPLE 9

Copper phthalocyanine (50 parts by weight) and 0.2 parts by weight of tetranitro copper phthlocyanine were dissolved in 500 parts by weight of 98% concentrated sulfuric acid with full stirring. The solution was placed into 5000 parts by weight of water to cause a photoconductive composition of copper phthalocyanine and tetranitro copper phthalocyanine to separate out, followed by filtration, washing with water and drying in a vacuum at 120° C.

The resulting composition (10 parts by weight), 22.5 parts by weight of thermosetting acrylic resin (Acrydic A 405, made by Dainippon Ink K.K.), 7.5 parts by weight of melamine resin (Super Beckamine J820, made by Dainippon Ink & Chemicals Inc.) and 15 parts by weight of styryl compound [6] were placed into a ball mill pot along with 100 parts by weight of a solvent mixture of methyl ethyl ketone and xylene in equal amounts. These ingredients were treated for 48 hours for dispersion to obtain a photoconductive coating composition, which was then applied to an aluminium substrate and dried to obtain a coating of about 15 μm in thickness, whereby a photosensitive member was prepared.

The Vo, E_(1/2) and DDR₁ values of the photosensitive members thus obtained were measured in a manner similar to Example 1 except that the voltage applied to the d.c. power supply was +6 kv.

EXAMPLES 10-12

Photosensitive members were prepared with the same structure and in a manner similar to Example 9 except that the styryl compounds [8], [14] and [22] for the charge transporting layer were used respectively instead of the styryl compound [6].

Vo, E_(1/2) and DDR₁ were measured in a manner similar to Example 9.

COMPARATIVE EXAMPLES 1-4

Photosensitive members were prepared with the same structure and in a manner similar to the member of Example 9 except that the compounds of the formula (C), (D), (E) and (F) given below were respectively used for the charge transporting layer in place of the styryl compound [6]. ##STR29##

The photosensitive members thus obtained were tested in a manner similar to Example 9 to measure V_(o), E_(1/2) and DDR₁.

COMPARATIVE EXAMPLES 5-7

Photosensitive members were prepared with the same structure and in a manner similar to Example 9 except that the styryl compounds (G), (H) and (I) for the charge transporting layer were used respectively instead of the styryl compound [6]. ##STR30##

The Vo, E_(1/2), DDR₁ and V_(R) values of the photosensitive members thus prepared were measured in a manner similar to Example 9:

Table 1 shows the results.

                  TABLE 1                                                          ______________________________________                                                  Vo        E.sub.1/2 DDR.sub.1                                                  (V)       (lux · sec)                                                                     (%)                                               ______________________________________                                         example 1  -650        1.8       2.0                                           example 2  -640        2.0       2.7                                           example 3  -650        1.9       2.3                                           example 4  -640        1.8       3.0                                           example 5  -640        2.6       3.2                                           example 6  -650        2.4       2.3                                           example 7  -650        2.6       2.0                                           example 8  -640        2.8       2.9                                           example 9  +630        2.1       12.2                                          example 10 +620        1.9       13.0                                          example 11 +610        2.3       13.7                                          example 12 +620        2.5       12.5                                          comparative                                                                               +620        36.0      6.5                                           example 1                                                                      comparative                                                                               +600        5.7       14.0                                          example 2                                                                      comparative                                                                               +610        8.3       13.0                                          example 3                                                                      comparative                                                                               +600        3.2       14.3                                          example 4                                                                      comparative                                                                               +620        15.0      12.0                                          example 5                                                                      comparative                                                                               +610        12.8      10.8                                          example 6                                                                      comparative                                                                               +600        6.5       13.7                                          example 7                                                                      ______________________________________                                    

EXAMPLES 13-16

Photosensitive members were prepared with the same structure and in a manner similar to Example 1 except that the bisazo compound represented by the following formula (J); ##STR31## was used instead of the bisazo compound (A) and the styryl compounds [34], [35], [36], [37] for the charge transporting layer were used respectively instead of the styryl compound [4]. The photosensitive members thus obtained were tested in a manner similar to Example 1 to measure Vo, E_(1/2) and DDR₁.

EXAMPLES 17-20

Photosensitive members were prepared with the same structure and in a manner similar to Example 5 except that the styryl compounds [38], [39] [40] and [45] for the charge transporting layer were used respectively instead of the styryl compound [14]. The photosensitive members thus obtained were tested in a manner similar to Example 5 to measure Vo, E_(1/2) and DDR₁.

EXAMPLES 21-24

Photosensitive members were prepared with the same structure and in a manner similar to Example 9 except that the styryl compounds [45], [48], [54 ], [58] for the charge transporting layer were used respectively instead of the styryl compound [6]. The photosensitive members thus obtained were tested in a manner similar to Example 9 to measure Vo, E₁₇₈ and DDR₁.

The results of Examples 13-24 were shown in Table 2.

                  TABLE 2                                                          ______________________________________                                                  Vo        E.sub.1/2 DDR.sub. 1                                                 (V)       (lux · sec)                                                                     (%)                                               ______________________________________                                         example 13 -640        2.0       2.8                                           example 14 -640        2.2       3.0                                           example 15 -630        2.3       3.5                                           example 16 -640        1.9       2.8                                           example 17 -650        2.3       2.5                                           example 18 -640        2.2       3.0                                           example 19 -650        2.4       2.6                                           example 20 -640        2.6       2.9                                           example 21 +620        2.1       13.2                                          example 22 +610        2.0       13.9                                          example 23 +620        1.8       12.5                                          example 24 +620        2.0       13.0                                          ______________________________________                                    

EXAMPLES 25-28

Photosensitive members were prepared with the same structure and in a manner similar to Example 1 except that the bisazo compound represented by the following formula (K); ##STR32## was used instead of the bisazo compound (A) and the styryl compounds [68], [73], [74], [77] for the charge transporting layer were used respectively instead of the styryl compound [4]. The photosensitive members thus obtained were tested in a manner similar to Example 1 to measure Vo, E_(1/2) and DDR₁.

EXAMPLES 29-32

Photosensitive members were prepared with the same structure and in a manner similar to Example 5 except that the bisazo compound represented by the formula (A) was used instead of the bisazo compound (B) and the styryl compounds [78], [79], [80], [82] for the charge transporting layer were used respectively instead of the styryl compound [14]. The photosensitive members thus obtained were tested in a manner similar to Example 1 to measure Vo, E_(1/2) and DDR₁.

EXAMPLES 33-36

Photosensitive members were prepared with the same structure and in a manner similar to Example 9 except that the styryl compounds [78], [84], [87] and [88] for the charge transporting layer were used respectively instead of the styryl compound [6]. The photosensitive members thus obtained were tested in a manner similar to Example 9 to measure Vo, E_(1/2) and DDR₁. Table 3 shows the results.

                  TABLE 3                                                          ______________________________________                                                  Vo        E.sub.1/2 DDR.sub.1                                                  (V)       (lux · sec)                                                                     (%)                                               ______________________________________                                         example 25 -650        2.7       2.3                                           example 26 -640        2.1       3.0                                           example 27 -640        2.3       3.2                                           example 28 -640        2.4       3.0                                           example 29 -640        1.5       3.3                                           example 30 -640        1.3       3.0                                           example 31 -650        1.8       2.5                                           example 32 -640        2.0       3.0                                           example 33 +620        1.4       12.5                                          example 34 +630        2.0       13.0                                          example 35 +620        1.8       13.2                                          example 36 +640        2.2       11.7                                          ______________________________________                                    

EXAMPLE 37

The bisazo compound of 0.45 parts by weight represented by the formula (L); ##STR33## 0.45 parts by weight of polyester resin (Vylon 200 made by Toyobo K.K.) and 50 parts by weight of cyclohexanone were taken in Sand grinder for dispersion. The dispersion solution of the bisazo compound was disperesed onto aluminotype-Mylar of 100 μm in thickness by a film applicator to form a charge generating layer so that the thickness of the dried layer would be 0.3 g/m². A solution of 50 parts by weight of the styryl compound [103] and 50 parts of polycabonate resin (Panlite K-1300; made by Teijin Kasei K.K.) dissolved in 400 parts by weight of 1,4-dioxane was dispersed onto the above formed charge generating layer to form a charge transporting layer so that the thickness of the dried layer would be 16 μm. Thus, a photosensitive member with the two layers was prepared.

The photosensitive member thus prepared was incorporated into a commercial electrophotographic copying machine (EP-4502, made by Minolta Camera K.K.) and tested with application of the voltage of -6 kv to the d.c. power supply to measure the initial surface potential Vo (v), the amount of exposure required for Vo to reduce to half the value of Vo (E_(1/2) (lux, sec)), and then potential decay rate DDR₁ (%) when the member was allowed to stand in the dark for 1 second after charged.

EXAMPLES 38-40

Photosensitive members were prepared with the same structure and in a manner similar to Example 37 except that the styryl compounds [105], [107], [111] for the charge transporting layer were used respectively instead of the styryl compound [103]. The photosensitive members thus obtained were tested in a manner similar to Example 37 to measure Vo, E_(1/2) and DDR₁.

EXAMPLE 41

The bisazo compound of 0.45 parts by weight represented by the formula (M); ##STR34## 0.45 parts by weight of polystyrene resin (molecular weight of 40000) and 50 parts by weight of cyclohexanone were taken in Sand grinder for dispersion. The dispersion solution of the bisazo compound was dispersed onto aluminotype-Mylar of 100 μm in thickness by a film applicator to form a charge generating layer so that the thickness of the dried layer would be 0.3 g/m². A solution of 70 parts by weight of the styryl compound [112] and 70 parts by weight of polyallylate resin (U-100; made by Yunichika K.K.) dissolved in 400 parts by weight of 1,4-dioxane was dispersed onto the above formed charge generating layer to form a charge transporting layer so that the thickness of the dried layer would be 20 μm. Thus, a photosensitive member with the two layers was prepared.

EXAMPLES 42-44

Photosensitive members were prepared with the same structure and in a manner similar to Example 41 except that the styryl compounds [116], [117], [120] for the charge transporting layer were used respectively instead of the styryl compound [112]. The photosensitive members thus obtained were tested in a manner similar to Example 1 to measure Vo, E_(1/2) and DDR₁.

EXAMPLE 45

Polycyclic quinone compound (0.45 parts by weight) represented by formula (N); ##STR35## 0.45 parts by weight of polycarbonate resin (Panlite K-1300; made by Teijin Kasei K.K.) and 50 parts by weight of dichloroethane were taken in Sand mill for dispersion. The dispersion solution of the polycyclic quinone pigment was dispersed onto aluminotype-Mylar of 100 μm in thickness by a film applicator to form a charge generating layer so that the thickness of the dried layer would be 0.4 g/m². A solution of 60 parts by weight of the styryl compound [117] and 50 parts by weight of polyallylate resin (U-100; made by Yunichika K.K.) dissolved in 400 parts by weight of 1,4-dioxane was dispersed onto the above formed charge generating layer to form a charge transporting layer so that the thickness of the dried layer would be 18 μm. Thus, a photosensitive member with the two layers was prepared.

The Vo, E_(1/2) and DDR₁ values of the photosensitive members thus obtained were measured in a manner similar to Example 37.

EXAMPLES 46 and 47

Photosensitive members were prepared with the same structure and in a manner similar to Example 45 except that the styryl compounds [118] and 119] for the charge transporting layer were used respectively instead of the styryl compound [117].

Vo, E_(1/2) and DDR₁ were measured in a manner similar to Example 45.

EXAMPLE 48

Polycyclic perylene compound (0.45 parts by weight) represented by the formula (O); ##STR36## 0.45 parts by weight of polybutyral resin (BX-1; made by Sekisui Kagaku Kogyo K.K.) and 50 parts by weight of dichloroethane were taken in Sand mill for dispersion. The dispersion solution of the perylene pigment was dispersed onto aluminotype-Mylar of 100 μm in thickness by a film applicator to form a charge generating layer so that the thickness of the dried layer would be 0.4 g/m². A solution of 60 parts by weight of the styryl compound [120] and 50 parts by weight of polycarbonate resin (PC-Z; made by Mitsubishi Gas Kagaku K.K.) dissolved in 400 parts by weight of 1,4-dioxane was dispersed onto the above formed charge generating layer to form a charge transporting layer so that the thickness of the dried layer would be 18 μm. Thus, a photosensitive member with the two layers was prepared.

The Vo, E_(1/2) and DDR₁ values of the photosensitive members thus obtained were measured in a manner similar to Example 37.

EXAMPLES 49 and 50

Photosensitive members were prepared with the same structure and in a manner similar to Example 48 except that the styryl compounds [121] and [123] for the charge transporting layer were used respectively instead of the styryl compound [120].

Vo, E_(1/2) and DDR₁ were measured in a manner similar to Example 37.

EXAMPLE 51

Titanyl phthalocyanine (0.45 parts by weight), 0.45 parts of butyral resin (BX-1, made by Sekisui Kagaku Kogyo K.K.) and 50 parts by weight of dichloroethane were taken into Sand mill for dispersion.

The dispersion solution of phthalocyanine pigment was dispersed onto aluminotype-Mylar of 100 μm in thickness by a film applicator to form a charge generating layer so that the thickness of the dried layer would be 0.3 g/m². A solution of 50 parts by weight of the styryl compound [116] and 50 parts by weight of polycarbonate resin (PC-Z; made by Mitsubishi Gas Kagaku K.K.) dissolved in 400 parts by weight of 1,4-dioxane was dispersed onto the above formed charge generating layer to form a charge transporting layer so that the thickness of the dried layer would be 18 μm. Thus, a photosensitive member with the two layers was prepared.

The Vo, E_(1/2) and DDR₁ values of the photosensitive members thus obtained were measured in a manner similar to Example 37.

EXAMPLES 52 and 53

Photosensitive members were prepared with the same structure and in a manner similar to Example 51 except that the styryl compounds [110] and [112] for the charge transporting layer were used respectively instead of the styryl compound [116].

Vo, E_(1/2) and DDR₁ were measured in a manner similar to Example 37.

EXAMPLE 54

Copper phthalocyanine (50 parts by weight) and 0.2 parts by weight of tetranitro copper phthlocyanine were dissolved in 500 parts by weight of 98% concentrated sulfuric acid with full stirring. The solution was placed into 5000 parts by weight of water to cause a photoconductive composition of copper phthalocyanine and tetranitro copper phthalocyanine to separate out, followed by filtration, washing with water and drying in a vacuum at 120° C.

The resulting composition (10 parts by weight), 22.5 parts by weight of thermosetting acrylic resin (Acrydic A 405, made by Dainippon Ink K.K.), 7.5 parts by weight of melamine resin (Super Beckamine J820, made by Dainippon Ink K.K.) and 15 parts by weight of the styryl compound [120] were placed into a ball mill pot along with 100 parts by weight of a solvent mixture of methyl ethyl ketone and xylene in equal amounts. These ingredients were treated for 48 hours for dispersion to obtain a photoconductive coating composition, which was then applied to an aluminium substrate and dried to obtain a coating of about 15 μm in thickness, whereby a photosensitive member was prepared.

The Vo, E_(1/2) and DDR₁ values of the photosensitive members thus obtained were measured in a manner similar to Example 37 except that the voltage applied to the d.c. power supply was +6 kv.

EXAMPLES 55-57

Photosensitive members were prepared with the same structure and in a manner similar to Example 54 except that the styryl compounds [121], [126] and [127] for the charge transporting layer were used respectively instead of the styryl compound [120].

Vo, E_(1/2) and DDR₁ were measured in a manner to Example 9.

COMPARATIVE EXAMPLES 8-11

Photosensitive members were prepared with the same structure and in a manner similar to the member of Example 54 except that the compounds of the formula (P), (Q), (R) and (S) given below were respectively used for the charge transporting layer in place of the styryl compound [120]. ##STR37##

The Vo, E_(1/2), DDR₁ values of the photosensitive members thus prepared were measured in manner similar to Example 54.

Table 4 shows the results.

The compounds (G), (Q), (R) and (S) were so poor in compatibility with binder resin that the crystals of those compounds were deposited at the preparations of the photosensitives members. The deposition of crystals were not observed in Examples.

                  TABLE 4                                                          ______________________________________                                                  Vo        E.sub.1/2 DDR.sub.1                                                  (V)       (lux · sec)                                                                     (%)                                               ______________________________________                                         example 37 -650        0.7       2.8                                           example 38 -640        0.5       3.2                                           example 39 -650        0.6       2.9                                           example 40 -660        0.4       2.5                                           example 41 -660        0.6       2.6                                           example 42 -670        0.5       2.0                                           example 43 -660        0.7       2.4                                           example 44 -650        0.3       3.0                                           example 45 -660        0.7       2.5                                           example 46 -650        0.5       2.9                                           example 47 -670        1.0       2.1                                           example 48 -660        0.6       2.4                                           example 49 -650        0.8       2.8                                           example 50 -660        0.5       2.3                                           example 51 -670        0.3       1.9                                           example 52 -650        0.6       2.8                                           example 53 -650        0.5       3.0                                           example 54 +610        0.6       13.0                                          example 55 +620        0.4       11.4                                          example 56 +620        0.8       12.0                                          example 57 +610        0.7       12.5                                          comparative                                                                               +610        10.2      11.5                                           example 8                                                                     comparative                                                                               +600        5.8       14.5                                           example 9                                                                     comparative                                                                               +620        13.4      9.8                                           example 10                                                                     comparative                                                                               +620        21.3      8.0                                           example 11                                                                     ______________________________________                                    

Table 1-Table 4 show that a photosensitive member of the invention is excellent in sensitivity and charge retaining ability and small dark decay efficiency.

In particular, the sensitivity (E_(1/2)) is much more improved in the photosensitive members shown in Table 4, which contains the styryl compound represented by the general formula [X].

Further, the photosensitive members obtained in Examples 9, 21, 33 and 54 were installed in an electrophtographic copying machine (EP-350Z, made by Minolta Camera K.K.) and provided to actual developments.

The photosensitive members of the invention were found to exhibit excellent gradient of images at first and final stages, no sensitivity variation, clear images and stable repeating properties, even after 1000 times of developments. 

What is claimed is:
 1. A photosensitive member with a photosensitive layer on or over an electrically conductive substrate, in which the photosensitive layer comprises a styryl compound which functions as a charge transporting material represented by the following formula [X]; ##STR38## in which R₁₁, R₁₂, R₁₆ and R₁₇ represent independently an alkyl group, aralkyl group or an aryl group, each of which may have a substituent; R₁₃, R₁₅ and R₁₈ represent independently a hydrogen atom, an alkyl group, an alkoxy group or a halogen atom; R₁₄ and R₁₉ represent independently an alkyl group or an alkoxy group; 1 or n is an integer of 1, 2 or 3; m is an integer of 0, 1 or
 2. 2. A photosensitive member of claim 1, in which R₁₁, R₁₂, R₁₆ and R₁₇ represent independently a C1-C4 alkyl group, a benzyl group, a phenethyl group or a phenyl group.
 3. A photosensitive member of claim 1, in which R₁₃, R₁₅ and R₁₈ represent independently a hydrogen atom, a methyl group, an ethyl group, a methoxy group, an ethoxy group or a halogen atom.
 4. A photosensitive member of claim 1, in which R₁₄ and R₁₉ represent independently a methyl group, an ethyl group, a methoxy group or an ethoxy group.
 5. A photosensitive member of claim 1, in which the thickness of the photosensitive layer is within the range of 3-30 μm.
 6. A photosensitive member of claim 1, in which the photosensitive layer comprises a charge generating layer and a charge transporting layer, in which the thickness of the charge generating layer is 4 μm or less.
 7. A photosensitive member of claim 1, in which the photosensitive layer comprises a charge generating layer and a charge transporting layer, in which the charge transporting layer contains the styryl compound dispersed in binder resin at the content of 0.02-2 parts by weight on the basis of 1 part by weight of the binder resin.
 8. A photosensitive member of claim 1, further comprising an intermediate layer between the electrically conductive substrate and the photosensitive layer, the thickness of the intermediate layer being 1 μm or less.
 9. A photosensitive member of claim 1, furhter comprising a surface protective layer on the photosensitive layer, the thickness of the surface protective layer being 5 μm or less.
 10. A photosensitive member of claim 9, in which the surface protctive layer is a resin layer, a resin layer containing a compound of low electrical conductivity or a plasma-polymerized layer of an organic compound.
 11. A photosensitive member of claim 1, in which the photosensitive layer contains the styryl compound dispersed in binder resin.
 12. A photosensitive member of claim 11, in which the styryl compound is contained at the content of 0.01-2 parts by weight on the basis of 1 part by weight of the binder resin in the photosensitive layer.
 13. A photosensitive member of claim 11, in which the binder resin is polyether resin, polycarbonate resin or acrylic resin.
 14. A photosensitive member of claim 11, in which the photosensitive layer contains a charge generating material dispersed in the binder resin.
 15. A photosensitive member of claim 14, in which the charge generating material is contained at the content of 0.01-2 parts by weight on the basis of 1 part by weight of the binder resin in the photosensitive layer. 